Page 10 of Tempting the Mountain Man

Gabe’s grin widens. “Charming, huh? Sounds like a lucky guy.”

“I’d say I’m the lucky one,” I reply softly, surprising myself with my boldness.

Gabe’s expression softens. “I’ve been thinking about last night all morning,” he admits. “I had a great time with you, Polly.”

My heart soars at hearing those words. “I did too,” I reply, my eyes fixed on his.

Gabe’s expression turns thoughtful. After a moment, he asks, “How do you feel about hiking out to the waterfalls later this week? I could pack a dinner for us, and we could watch the sunset.”

The question takes me by surprise but in the best way possible. “I’d love that,” I say, unable to keep the smile from my face.

“Great!” Gabe’s face lights up. “How about Wednesday? I can pick you up after you close the bakery.”

“Wednesday sounds perfect.” I nod, excitement bubbling up inside me. “What should I bring?”

“Just yourself,” Gabe says with a smile. “And maybe some comfortable hiking shoes. I’ll take care of the rest.”

“Are you sure?” I ask. “I could bake something for dessert.”

Gabe chuckles. “Well, I wouldn’t say no to one of your famous apple turnovers. If it’s not too much trouble, of course.”

“For you? Never,” I reply, flustered by my forwardness.

“It’s a date, then,” he says warmly. “Oh, and can I get my usual coffee to go? I’ve got a busy day at the cabin ahead.”

His eyes never leave me as I make his coffee, sending a pleasant shiver down my spine.

“So, how’s the cabin coming along?” I ask, trying to keep my voice steady.

“It’s getting there,” Gabe replies. “We’ve been working on the roof today. Should have it finished by the end of the week.”

I hand him the cup, our fingers brushing. “That’s impressive. You’ll have to give me a tour sometime.”

“I’d like that,” Gabe says softly.

I nod, my stomach fluttering. “Sounds perfect. I saved some turnovers for you,” I say, pushing the box across the counter.

Gabe gives me a megawatt smile that goes straight to my core. “You’re the best, Polly. I hope you know that. I’ll see you Wednesday.”

As he turns to leave, he looks over his shoulder, catching my eye one last time. The intensity of his gaze makes my breath catch in my throat.

The moment the door closes behind him, Sophie is at my side. “Okay, now you have to tell me everything. What was that about Wednesday?”

I can’t contain my smile as I turn to her. “He’s taking me to the waterfalls.”

Sophie’s eyes widen. “The waterfalls? Oh, Polly, that’s so romantic! And then what? A tour of his bed?”

Once again, my cheeks burn. “Sophie! It’s not like that. We’re still getting to know each other.”

“Uh-huh,” Sophie says skeptically. “And this ‘getting to know each other’ involves dates at the county fair and secluded hikes?”

“Stop it.” I laugh, swatting her arm playfully. “It’s not like that. Gabe’s a gentleman.”

“I’m sure he is.” Sophie nods. “But come on, Polly. You can’t tell me you haven’t thought about it.”

I bite my lip, unsure how much I want to say. There are times with friends when you want to tell them everything, and other times when the relationship feels so special that you want tokeep it all protected and private. “Can we talk about something else?”

Sophie grins triumphantly. “Fine, fine. But don’t think you’re off the hook. I want all the details after your waterfall date!”

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